This trip was an excellent way to see a lot of Sri Lanka in 2 weeks. There was so much variety in the places we visited and the activities undertaken. We were able to experience culture and history in the temples and towns and then enjoy the wildlife on the safaris and the cycling trip. The Sri Lankan people were very welcoming.
Winter Tours in Italy
Italy Winter Tours
Best 5 Places for Skiing in the Dolomites
Sexten Valley: Making up Italy’s iconic Dolomites, the Sexten Dolomites is a fabulous region full of history and skiing trails that snake through the South Tyrol and north-eastern Italy. Nestled between the Sexten Dolomites and the Carnian Alps is the Sexten Valley, a wildly beautiful and nature-filled area that has become synonymous with skiing and mountain climbing. Alpine meadows and ancient pine trees create a romantic backdrop while the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Three Peaks of the Dolomites, are the main focal point.
Alta Badia: Arguably one of the most well know skiing regions in Italy in the heart of the South Tyrolean Dolomite Mountains, Alta Badia is a popular destination for winter holidays in Italy. Its gentler slopes of San Cassiano and Corvara are perfect for anyone that is new to skiing but still wants to explore the stunning scenery of the Dolomites. There’s a real sense of calm in the air which provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can develop your skills. But if you’re a seasoned skier, there are 130km of well-maintained slopes to explore.
Madonna di Campiglio: Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio is a popular location for awinter activities in Italy. Skiing was introduced to the area in the early 20th century owing to its picturesque setting and alpine peaks that are hugged by the Dolomites and the Adamello Presanella range. With approximately 150km of slopes to explore, Campiglio is one of the largest ski areas in Italy. If you like a challenge, you can also trek along the Via Ferrate for some of the finest views in the world.
Villabassa: Enjoying a mild climate with plenty of sun and a dreamy position high up in the heart of the Dolomites, Villabassa is a much-loved destination for winter trips to Italy. This pretty spa village has become the starting point for skiing and winter walking along the Val Pusteria trail. But it’s not all about the skiing here, Villabassa also has a rich history and is home to several religious buildings such as St Anna Chapel and St Magdalene Church which houses a splendid Franz Kock organ.
San Cassiano: One of the prettiest alpine villages in the Dolomites, San Cassiano nestles at the foot of Continurines and Lavarela. In the winter months, adventure seekers travel here to ski down the famous Foram toboggan run, which stretches for over 7km from Lagazuoi. The Armentarola cross-country skiing centre also attracts the regular skiing crowd as it forms a part of the exceptional Dolomiti Nordic Ski. For some wonderful apres-ski, there’s a wide selection of restaurants and bars in the village where you can mingle with other skiers and walkers in the area.
Ann Gordon Discover Sri Lanka
Paul OLeary Cape Town & the Garden RouteFrom Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, we loved every minute of the tour, learning so much about the country, the culture, the people, the food and the wildlife. Our guide Marco had a wealth of knowledge on all of the above and with boundless energy was prepared to go to enormous lengths to make the trip special (he also has a wonderful sense of humour).
The group comprising 15 people (about the right size) was so warm and friendly, making it a pleasure to get to know everyone.
The hotels were all well equipped, with some better than others: Tsitsikama had amazing views of the sea, House Martin was a clear step up (run by a lovely couple), while The Windsor was great provided you have a sea facing room (do pay for this to avoid overlooking the car park). City Lodge is a typical city travellers hotel but has just been refurbished so it was in good condition.
The trip may not be super-active but the pace is full on as you move from activity to activity and from location to location. We ate in some fantastic spots and Marco was always on hand to recommend the local specialities / what not to eat at each restaurant. He even managed to convince us to try Mopane worms by the end!
Wine tasting under the trees in Stellenbosch was lovely despite the food and tour around the facility being a little shambolic.
When in Cape Town, the Robben Island tour was well worth attending especially for the second part when you are guided by an ex-political prisoner. Our last night of the tour at Marco’s Restaurant (not related) in Cape Town which was such a fun way to bring it to an end.
Overall, a fabulous trip which we thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend.
Sally James Cycle the Back Roads of Sri LankaAmazing trip with a fabulous leader, Ruwan, great support team and group of other cyclists. The team ensured everything always ran smoothly with lots of smiles.
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